Apple has introduced a new app called Surveyor to enhance Apple Maps by gathering detailed location data. The app is now available in the U.S. App Store and allows partner companies to contribute real-time street-level information.
How the Surveyor App Works
Unlike Apple’s LiDAR-equipped Maps vehicles, Surveyor focuses on capturing street sign images. Apple enables third-party firms to collect precise street-level data, reducing the need for its own mapping cars to cover the same areas repeatedly.
When users open the app, they see a button labeled “Open Partner App.” This feature suggests that Apple works with multiple third-party apps for data collection. Selecting the button redirects users to Premise, an app that rewards people for completing tasks like taking photos or answering surveys.
Who Can Use the Surveyor App?
Although Apple made Surveyor publicly available, the company has not promoted it. The app primarily serves employees of Apple’s mapping partners rather than everyday users. According to internal code, Apple expects users to mount their iPhone while driving to collect real-time navigation data.
Apple Maps already allows users to report hazards, accidents, and speed traps, but Surveyor pushes data collection further. By expanding its data sources, Apple aims to compete with Google Maps, which has long relied on user contributions for mapping accuracy.
Apple Maps Expansion Plans
Apple has considered adding paid search ads to Apple Maps, helping businesses appear more prominently in search results. The company’s latest effort to improve map accuracy and real-time data collection could make Apple Maps more attractive to advertisers and users alike.
Final Thoughts
The Surveyor app highlights Apple’s growing reliance on third-party contributors to enhance Apple Maps. Apple is working to refine mapping accuracy and expand its reach, which could lead to more precise directions and better business listings for users.
